3 Dots Downtown Restructures in the Wake of Funding Cuts to Keep Creativity Flowing in State College
September 22, 2025
STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — 3 Dots Downtown, State College’s hub for creativity and community connection, is beginning a new chapter. Drastic budget cuts due to the elimination of federal funding as well as a stalled state budget have forced 3 Dots’ board of directors to restructure operations to ensure the organization’s long-term viability.
Located at 137 East Beaver Avenue in State College, 3 Dots is a vibrant downtown space that hosts artistic and innovative experiences, earning Best Community Space each year since its founding in 2019. Over the past six years, 3 Dots has been instrumental in fostering unforgettable events, exhibitions, performances, and community conversations in State College.
A place where almost anything is possible, 3 Dots has incubated local brick-and-mortar ventures from former programming partners including the Blue Brick Theatre, The Print Factory, Centre LGBTQ+, and Manny’s. The organization also has provided more than $75,000 in grants to local artists and culture workers through its monthly Awesome Grant Program, which helps people bring their creative ideas to life in our region.
As part of the restructuring, the board has made the difficult decision to eliminate the positions of Executive Director Erica Quinn and Assistant Director Elena Quinones. Jean Roman will continue in her role as operations and events coordinator.
“3 Dots has always thrived on the dedication of its people” said Eston Martz, board chair. “With Jean Roman anchoring our daily work, the board is leading with focus and care to carry the mission forward. We are grateful for Erica and Elena’s outstanding leadership and excited that they will continue to play an active role in shaping the 3 Dots community.”
“3 Dots is alive because of everyone who shows up with curiosity and courage,” said Erica Quinn. “Together, we make space for experimentation, joy, and connection. I’m thrilled to keep championing creativity here in Centre County and across the state and to see where our collective energy takes us next.”
3 Dots Downtown remains a hub for creativity, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit. The organization will keep fueling new ideas through Awesome Grants, sparking energy with performances and exhibitions, and bringing people together for vital community conversations. Our space will also stay open and flexible—ready to be activated by groups and individuals with visions of their own.
Community members are invited to learn more and get involved at 3dotsdowntown.com.
About 3 Dots Downtown
3 Dots is an award-winning nonprofit arts and culture hub based in Downtown State College. Our mission is to inspire a more vibrant community by elevating the humanities, promoting local arts, cultivating innovative experiences, and offering an inclusive public space for civic engagement. We envision that Central Pennsylvania can become a cultural destination that’s energized by local artists and innovative changemakers. We are passionate about creating an inclusive, intergenerational community for all to enjoy. Located at 137 East Beaver Avenue in State College, 3 Dots is a vibrant downtown space that hosts artistic and innovative experiences, earning Best Community Space each year since its founding in 2019.
